Explore The Best Of East Tennessee With Our Comprehensive Travel Guide

If you’re planning a trip to East Tennessee, you’re in for a treat! This region is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the bustling city of Knoxville, there’s something for everyone in East Tennessee. In this travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

East Tennessee has no shortage of must-see attractions. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Dollywood, located in Pigeon Forge, is a popular theme park that offers a mix of thrilling rides and live entertainment. If you’re a history buff, be sure to visit the Museum of Appalachia in Clinton or the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site in Greeneville.

Hidden Gems

While the top attractions are definitely worth a visit, don’t overlook the hidden gems of East Tennessee. The Obed Wild and Scenic River, located in Wartburg, offers stunning views and excellent kayaking and hiking opportunities. The Lost Sea Adventure in Sweetwater is the largest underground lake in the United States and is a unique experience for visitors of all ages. For a taste of local culture, head to the Unicoi County Apple Festival in Erwin or the Grainger County Tomato Festival in Rutledge.

Food Scene

East Tennessee is known for its hearty, Southern cuisine. Barbecue is a must-try, and there are plenty of great options, including Calhoun’s in Knoxville and Ridgewood Barbecue in Bluff City. For a taste of Appalachian cuisine, head to the Old Mill Restaurant in Pigeon Forge or the Dixie Stampede in Branson. And don’t forget to try the sweet tea!

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? East Tennessee has plenty of affordable options. Camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great way to save money on lodging, and there are plenty of free hiking trails to explore. For a fun and inexpensive evening out, catch a movie at the Parkway Drive-In in Maryville or take a stroll through the Knoxville Farmers’ Market.

Outdoor Adventures

With its stunning natural beauty, East Tennessee is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking are all popular activities in the region. The Appalachian Trail runs through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering some of the best hiking in the country. For a more leisurely outdoor experience, take a scenic drive along the Cherohala Skyway or visit the Cherokee National Forest.

Historical Landmarks

East Tennessee played an important role in the history of the United States, and there are plenty of historical landmarks to explore in the region. The Andrew Johnson National Historic Site in Greeneville is a must-visit for history buffs, as is the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. The East Tennessee History Center in Knoxville offers a glimpse into the region’s past, while the Ramsey House Plantation in Knoxville is a beautifully preserved example of antebellum architecture.

Family-Friendly Activities

East Tennessee is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Dollywood is a top attraction for families, with rides, shows, and a water park. The Knoxville Zoo is another popular destination, as is the Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo. For a unique experience, take a ride on the Three Rivers Rambler train or visit the Knoxville Children’s Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For those who like to explore off the beaten path, East Tennessee has plenty to offer. The Appalachian Arts Craft Center in Norris is a great place to pick up unique, handmade souvenirs. The Secret City Scenic Excursion Train in Oak Ridge takes visitors on a journey through the region’s history. And for a truly unique experience, head to the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum in Gatlinburg.

Natural Wonders

From the Great Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau, East Tennessee is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the country. The Chimney Tops trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers breathtaking views, while the Bald River Falls in Tellico Plains is a beautiful spot for a picnic. The Frozen Head State Park and Natural Area in Wartburg is home to some of the most rugged and picturesque terrain in the region.

Vibrant Nightlife

East Tennessee may be known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, but it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. Knoxville’s Market Square is a popular destination for drinks and live music, while the Old City offers a mix of bars and clubs. In Pigeon Forge, the Island offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, including a Ferris wheel and a fountain show.

Local Markets

If you’re looking for local flavor, East Tennessee has plenty of markets to explore. The Knoxville Farmers’ Market is a great place to sample local produce and artisanal goods, while the Gatlinburg Farmers Market offers a mix of fresh produce and crafts. The Jonesborough Farmers Market is another great option, with a focus on sustainable agriculture and community building.

Beaches and Mountains

East Tennessee may not have a coastline, but it’s still a great destination for beach lovers. The Tellico Lake Beach in Vonore is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, while the Douglas Lake Beach in Sevierville offers beautiful views of the Great Smoky Mountains. And of course, the mountains themselves are a major draw for visitors to the region.

Cultural Immersion

From music and art to history and cuisine, East Tennessee has a rich cultural heritage that visitors can explore. The Knoxville Museum of Art is a great place to discover local artists, while the Museum of East Tennessee History offers a comprehensive look at the region’s past. For a taste of Southern gospel music, head to the Smoky Mountain Gospel Jubilee in Pigeon Forge.

Art and Music Scene

East Tennessee has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. The Appalachian Arts Craft Center in Norris is a great place to discover local artists, while the Bijou Theatre in Knoxville offers a mix of live music and theater. For a taste of bluegrass music, head to the International Bluegrass Music Museum in Owensboro.

Walking Tours

Walking tours are a great way to explore the history and culture of East Tennessee. The Knoxville Walking Tours offer a variety of options, including a historic homes tour and a ghost tour. The Jonesborough Walking Tour takes visitors through the region’s oldest town, while the Gatlinburg Walking Tour offers a mix of history and natural beauty.

Architectural Marvels

East Tennessee is home to some impressive architectural marvels, from antebellum mansions to Gothic churches. The Biltmore Estate in Asheville is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts, as is the Tennessee Theatre in Knoxville. The Glenmore Mansion in Jefferson City is a beautifully preserved example of Greek Revival architecture.

Historical Sites

East Tennessee is steeped in history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore in the region. The Cumberland Gap National Historical Park offers a glimpse into the region’s frontier past, while the Mabry-Hazen House in Knoxville offers a look at life during the Civil War. The Andrew Johnson National Historic Site in Greeneville is a must-visit for history buffs.

Biking Routes

For cyclists, East Tennessee offers plenty of scenic routes to explore. The Virginia Creeper Trail, located in Abingdon, offers 34 miles of picturesque scenery and easy riding. The Dragon’s Tail, located in Deals Gap, is a challenging ride with 318 curves in 11 miles. The Riverwalk Greenway in Maryville offers a more leisurely ride along the Little River.

Wellness Retreats

For those looking to relax and rejuvenate, East Tennessee has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. The Blackberry Farm in Walland offers luxurious accommodations and a range of wellness services, including yoga and meditation. The Butterfly Gap Retreat in Maryville offers a secluded setting and a variety of wellness activities, including hiking and massage.

Adventure Sports

For adrenaline junkies, East Tennessee has plenty of adventure sports to offer. The Ocoee River, located in Ducktown, is a top destination for whitewater rafting. The Windrock Bike Park in Oliver Springs offers some of the best downhill mountain biking in the region. And for a truly unique experience, try your hand at ziplining at the Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park in Sevierville.

With so much to see and do in East Tennessee, it’s hard to know where to